Kirk Endorses Biggert in New Video

Minutes earlier, the Republican senator was greeted with cheers and a hug from his mom after he reached the top of the Willis Tower and achieved a personal goal. He climbed 37 floors during the event.

It’s been 10 months since Kirk suffered a devastating stroke that left many wondering if he would be able to recover. It has taken hours of tough rehab to get where Kirk is today, which has been documented in several videos Kirk released to the public as updates on his progress.

Bob Dold Cuts Ad With Mark Kirk

The 10th District Republican makes a stop at his predecessor Mark Kirk's house for a campaign ad. (Published Thursday, Nov 1, 2012)

When asked about his motivation, Kirk said Sunday’s event kept him going and in good spirits.

“In fact, I was befriending people who had big staircases,” Kirk joked.

All jokes aside, Kirk said his next step is to walk the Capitol steps in Washington D.C. by January for the next session. He will continue his rehab treatment with RIC as he works towards that goal.

The physical and speech therapists could not be happier with the senator’s progress.

“He did better than I did,” said Kirk’s physical Therapist Dr. Jay Alexander, who climbed the flights of stairs alongside the senator.

“It’s just been really great experience for all of us, it’s what we live for” said Kirk’s speech therapist Kathryn Borio.